The Northern Wetlands Trail in Maleny is a beautiful walk around sections of wetlands and rainforest. It is a comfortable 1.8 km return walk along mostly flat terrain. There are different loops around sections of the wetlands so the walk can be done in short parts.
Maleny Wetlands- a haven of peace
This trail passes through the recycled water and transpiration area where high-quality treated effluent is irrigated into the rainforest and wetlands eventually flowing into the Obi Obi Creek. This area won a UN World Environment Day Business Award for Best Specific Environmental Initiative in 2015.
Fields of young green trees and rainforest
The wetlands provide a sanctuary for various flora and flora and are teeming with life. Within the marsh and miry waters exist ecosystems of wonderment and mystery. The low-pitched clapping sound of frogs can be heard as you walk along and birds twitter and flit above the canopies of tall trees. The elusive platypus can be seen in the early mornings.
The wetlands are a sanctuary for various flora and fauna
This area is a haven for those who may be seeking solitude (there are often few or no walkers on the trail), a connection with nature or a peaceful interlude from the bustle of daily life. There are many types of established native trees growing amongst vast successions of young trees.
Walk along and see if you recognise any wildlife sounds or try and identify different native trees and bush. Avid birdwatchers can take their binoculars along for a closer look. I've seen golden whistlers, red headed robins, fig birds, and other birds which I have yet to identify.
Walk along wide gravel and grass paths lined with lomandra and native grasses
A simple nature walk
In the early mornings when dappled sunlight emerges over the wetlands it is quiet and magical and on wintry days when shrouded by fog, it is otherworldly and mysterious. When windy gusts blow, the tussocks of coastal grasses and trees rustle and sway creating a wonderful sight.
There is no shortage of scenic places to see around Maleny on Jinibara Country, and this area further enriches one's experience of the landscape in this region.
After dawn stillness over wetlands
Head into Maleny and from Maple St take a right on Teak Street which will become North Maleny Road at the top of the hill. Follow this to Obi Lane and take a right turn, then right onto Porters Lane. Drive to the bottom of the road to the giant fig tree where there is parking. The entrance to the wetlands trail is on the opposite side of the Maleny Sports Park and Beersheba Museum.
Walking from Maple St Maleny:
Make your way to Riverside Shopping Centre on Maple St. The boardwalk behind Concept Coffee and The Salvation Army Op Shop leads to the Peace in the Trees Sculptural Walk (a short walk). Follow this walk to the end, over the Cambage Crossing and Thomas Porter Creek boardwalk where you'll see the giant fig tree and Maleny Sports Park. The wetlands walk is on the opposite side of the road.
All photos by May Mafinda.
